New York / Washington — In a sharp address at the United Nations General Assembly, U.S. President Donald Trump called out India and China as the “primary funders” of Russia’s war in Ukraine, accusing both nations of sustaining Moscow’s military through continued purchases of Russian oil.
Speaking at UNGA, Trump argued that while much of the world condemned Russia’s aggression, India and China were undermining sanctions and diplomacy by importing energy from Moscow. He warned that unless Russia agrees to a peace deal, the U.S.—along with its allies—will consider imposing powerful new tariffs on countries buying Russian oil.
Trump further criticized European nations, including some NATO allies, for maintaining energy trade with Russia despite the conflict. He described this as paradoxical, saying they are “funding the war against themselves.” According to Trump, any tariff regime his administration puts forward would be most effective only if a broad coalition, including Europe, were to adopt similar measures.
India, for its part, has long defended its energy strategy as driven by national interest and global market dynamics—arguing that its purchases of Russian oil are legal and essential for meeting its energy needs. Beijing has similarly maintained that its energy deals are based on commercial terms and not intended to support military actions.
With global tensions rising and diplomatic pressure mounting, Trump’s remarks mark a significant escalation in rhetoric—tying energy security directly into war accountability. Whether this translates into concrete policy shifts or sanctions remains to be seen.
